FORT MYERS, Fla.- Five years ago today, the foundation was quite literally laid for the future of Florida SouthWestern State College athletics, bringing us today's entry for our 'On This Date in FSW Athletics History' series, the foundation being poured at Suncoast Credit Union Arena.  

 

With representation from Suncoast Credit Union Arena and the FSW Foundation joining FSW President Dr. Jeff Allbritten, Bucs Athletic Director Carl McAloose, and new FSW Basketball coaches Marty Richter and Dr. Kristie Ward to mark the milestone by imprinting their handprints in the concrete, the first cement flowed into the foundation of what would later become the finest facility in all of the NJCAA.  

 

Completed, the pride and joy of the Buccaneers totaled 75,000 square feet including six skyboxes, a hospitality center, three full sized courts, seven locker rooms, and seating for 3,300 fans to go along with offices for all FSW staff and a fitness and weight training area.  

 

In its first five years, along with playing host to the Buccaneer Basketball and Volleyball teams, has seen athletic events such as the Fort Myers Tip-Off, one of the top Division I Basketball Tournaments in the country, the City of Palms Classic, the top prep Basketball Tournament in the country, and Madisen's Match, a professional tennis event including Olympic Gold Medalists Bob and Mike Bryan.  Outside of the athletics realm, the arena has seen concerts and shows from comedian Gabriel Iglesias to Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Steve Miller and the Steve Miller Band.  

 

Stay tuned to FSWBucs.com and @FSWBucs on social media later this month as we continue our trips down memory lane to relive some of the top moments in FSW Athletics history.